LONDON: Midfielder Assan Ouedraogo was enjoying a holiday in Marbella when he received the unexpected call to join Germany's World Cup squad following an injury to Lennart Karl. The 20-year-old described the moment as a childhood dream realized, speaking on Saturday.
Injury Replacement
Karl sustained a muscle tear during training ahead of Saturday's friendly against the United States in Chicago. Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann promptly turned to the RB Leipzig player to fill the gap.
"I got the call from the national coach on Friday evening while on holiday," Ouedraogo said in an interview on his club's website. "When Julian Nagelsmann told me I was now part of the squad, I needed a moment to take it in and realize what had happened before going and packing my things straight away."
Previous Experience
This is not Ouedraogo's first experience with the national team. He previously made an appearance for Germany when he was drafted in to replace an injured Nadiem Amiri. In that match, he came off the bench to score the last goal in a 6-0 victory over Slovakia in November during their final qualifier.
"It's a huge honor and makes me very proud to represent Germany at the World Cup," Ouedraogo said. "A childhood dream of mine has come true, one I have worked hard for, especially over the past few months and years."
He also expressed sympathy for Karl: "At the same time, I would like to wish Lenny a speedy and full recovery. I feel very sorry for him that he got injured so close to the tournament and can't be involved."
Group Stage
Germany, whose last World Cup triumph came in 2014, will begin their Group E campaign against Curacao on June 14 in Houston. They will then face the Ivory Coast and Ecuador.
Rising Star
Ouedraogo's rapid ascent has become one of the most encouraging narratives in German football over the past year. After impressing at the club level with his composure, technical ability, and maturity beyond his age, he has quickly emerged as one of the country's most highly rated young midfielders.
